Shanahan ORDERS Marshall onto the field

So, Mike Shanahan finally just ordered 2nd year WR Brandon Marshall on the practice field today, despite the ailing quadriceps that has kept him out of camp for nearly two weeks.

“(Shanahan) said it to challenge me – to see if I was mentally strong. He knew that I was in pain, and that it hurt, but he also knows it’s one of those things where you have to get out there, push yourself and be mentally tough.”

— Brandon Marshall 8/10/07

And it definitely hurts, as scar tissue normally builds up as the muscle heals. But Shanahan was convinced that team physicians were correct and it was time for Marshall to return.

“I told him this morning that he had to work through it. You have to fight through a little pain and scar tissue but that is just part of it.”

— Mike Shanahan 8/10/07

Marshall wasn’t at all sure, but as this injury is one of his first in years he listened to the coach. And as Shanahan expected, after some warming up, Marshall was able to not only participate in 1-on-1 drills, but stayed out on the field for some full team work. Marshall even made a ‘play of the day’ by snagging a pass in front of Champ Bailey late in the morning session.

“I was kind of hesitant at first, but as you can see… I’ve got a smile on my face.” — Brandon Marshall 8/10/07

As it turns out… coach knows best.

** photo taken by Andrew Mason **